Definition

The act of taking people or property for public use, often without their consent.

Example

During the war, impressment was used to gather sailors for the navy.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about the concept of impressment?

Yeah, it's when they seize people for service, right?

Exactly! It sounds really harsh when you think about it.

Definitely, I can’t imagine being taken like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Impressment is formed from "impress" (from Latin "imprimere", meaning to press into or onto) and the suffix "-ment" (meaning the action or process of). The word refers to the action or process of pressing into service, particularly in a military context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pressing' something into service — 'impress' means to press, and '-ment' indicates the action of that pressing.

Visually Confused Words